Autism Therapists in Dexter, MI

Photo of Zoe Lapham, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Zoe Lapham
Limited Licensed Psychologist, TLLP
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
I believe therapy can and should be for everyone. For that reason, my treatment approach emphasizes collaboration, evidence-based practices, and compassion. That means we work together to identify your treatment goals and preferences while affirming your identity and experiences. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and interpersonal approaches to care. My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, LGBTQ experiences, neurodivergent experiences, and interpersonal relationships.
I believe therapy can and should be for everyone. For that reason, my treatment approach emphasizes collaboration, evidence-based practices, and compassion. That means we work together to identify your treatment goals and preferences while affirming your identity and experiences. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and interpersonal approaches to care. My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, LGBTQ experiences, neurodivergent experiences, and interpersonal relationships.
(734) 441-2756 View (734) 441-2756
Photo of Roger E Lauer, PhD, Psychologist
Roger E Lauer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
My private practice is strength-based and focused extensively on neuropsychological testing and intervention. I approach my work by focusing on 'islands of competence' to improve self-esteem around learning, work and performance . I work with children, adolescents and adults who have multiple or tough-to-diagnose issues. In other words, I specialize in complex cases. My focus is on "intervention plans" that are personalized for your needs, comprehensive and effective. You will not only find out what things you need help with, but your strengths will be recognized as well. Please visit our website at www.CNLD.org.
My private practice is strength-based and focused extensively on neuropsychological testing and intervention. I approach my work by focusing on 'islands of competence' to improve self-esteem around learning, work and performance . I work with children, adolescents and adults who have multiple or tough-to-diagnose issues. In other words, I specialize in complex cases. My focus is on "intervention plans" that are personalized for your needs, comprehensive and effective. You will not only find out what things you need help with, but your strengths will be recognized as well. Please visit our website at www.CNLD.org.
(734) 994-9466 View (734) 994-9466
Photo of Lindsay Pietruck Bailey - Pietruck Therapy Services PLLC, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pietruck Therapy Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dexter, MI 48130
Pietruck Therapy Services (PTS) is a private group practice. PTS hopes to build mutual respect, trust and create a safe space with all clients. PTS has a commitment to providing culturally responsive services and strives to provide the upmost ethical practices. We are enthusiastic about working with children and families who are or have experienced trauma. We are very passionate about the work we do with children, adolescents, young adults and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, life adjustments, ADHD and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We also have training and experience working with individuals who are on the ASD spectrum.
Pietruck Therapy Services (PTS) is a private group practice. PTS hopes to build mutual respect, trust and create a safe space with all clients. PTS has a commitment to providing culturally responsive services and strives to provide the upmost ethical practices. We are enthusiastic about working with children and families who are or have experienced trauma. We are very passionate about the work we do with children, adolescents, young adults and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, life adjustments, ADHD and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We also have training and experience working with individuals who are on the ASD spectrum.
(734) 436-3311 View (734) 436-3311
Photo of Christopher Curtis, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Curtis
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dexter, MI 48130  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone has the ability to improve and to enhance their sense of hope, peace, wellbeing and balance in life. It is my privilege to work collaboratively in a nonjudgemental and accepting space to support and empower individuals in the process of personal exploration and development. Through the consideration of thoughts, feelings, behaviors, responses and inner dialogue we can work together to improve your current state and you will be able to decide what choices make the most sense for you.
I believe that everyone has the ability to improve and to enhance their sense of hope, peace, wellbeing and balance in life. It is my privilege to work collaboratively in a nonjudgemental and accepting space to support and empower individuals in the process of personal exploration and development. Through the consideration of thoughts, feelings, behaviors, responses and inner dialogue we can work together to improve your current state and you will be able to decide what choices make the most sense for you.
(734) 215-6129 View (734) 215-6129

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brian Neau, LMSW, Counselor
Brian Neau
Counselor, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Brian is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist who has a particular passion for helping people to manage ADHD, Autism, and the many issues that can develop because of living with these conditions. He also has experience working with anxiety and mood disorders as well as grief and trauma.
Brian is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist who has a particular passion for helping people to manage ADHD, Autism, and the many issues that can develop because of living with these conditions. He also has experience working with anxiety and mood disorders as well as grief and trauma.
(734) 530-4369 View (734) 530-4369
Photo of Michael Linkevich, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Linkevich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Is something out of balance in your life? With yourself? Your child? Your effectiveness as a parent? Your relationships? Life circumstances/transitions? If it is, please know that my way of practicing is to non-judgmentally understand what is going on--what area of your life is being negatively impacted. Then we can collaboratively work on establishing goals and a treatment plan. Whether it is Anxiety, OCD, Autism (including very young kids with autism), Depression/Bipolar, Behavior Problems, ADHD, Trauma or Insomnia, there is a way for you or your child to feel more in control, grounded and balanced.
Is something out of balance in your life? With yourself? Your child? Your effectiveness as a parent? Your relationships? Life circumstances/transitions? If it is, please know that my way of practicing is to non-judgmentally understand what is going on--what area of your life is being negatively impacted. Then we can collaboratively work on establishing goals and a treatment plan. Whether it is Anxiety, OCD, Autism (including very young kids with autism), Depression/Bipolar, Behavior Problems, ADHD, Trauma or Insomnia, there is a way for you or your child to feel more in control, grounded and balanced.
(734) 800-8440 View (734) 800-8440
Photo of Dr. Erinn Cameron, PhD, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Erinn Cameron
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively and compassionately from within a neurodiversity affirming framework. Together, we will engage in an empowering experience that will help you move towards the future with confidence. I work with clients to target difficulties associated with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, insomnia, weight management, tic disorder, binge eating disorder, trauma, and PTSD. I also conduct ADHD & Autism assessments and pre-surgical evaluations. I implement evidence based interventions such as CBT, CPT for PTSD and trauma, Mindfulness, Habit Reversal Training, Somatic Psychotherapy, ERP, DBT Skills, and ACT.
I work collaboratively and compassionately from within a neurodiversity affirming framework. Together, we will engage in an empowering experience that will help you move towards the future with confidence. I work with clients to target difficulties associated with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, insomnia, weight management, tic disorder, binge eating disorder, trauma, and PTSD. I also conduct ADHD & Autism assessments and pre-surgical evaluations. I implement evidence based interventions such as CBT, CPT for PTSD and trauma, Mindfulness, Habit Reversal Training, Somatic Psychotherapy, ERP, DBT Skills, and ACT.
(734) 789-4658 View (734) 789-4658
Photo of Tammy R McCrory - McCrory Center , LLP, LBA, BCBA, Limited Licensed Psychologist
McCrory Center
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, LBA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Welcome! I'm Tammy McCrory, a Limited Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst dedicated to providing top-notch services in psychological evaluations, behavior consultations, and autism diagnostic and treatment. My mission is simple - to help you and your loved ones overcome any obstacles standing in the way of a fulfilling life.
Welcome! I'm Tammy McCrory, a Limited Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst dedicated to providing top-notch services in psychological evaluations, behavior consultations, and autism diagnostic and treatment. My mission is simple - to help you and your loved ones overcome any obstacles standing in the way of a fulfilling life.
(248) 985-8812 View (248) 985-8812
Dr. Fiona K. Miller
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I specialize in Autism Spectrum Evaluations, Parenting Support, and Therapy for challenges related to: Autism; Anxiety; Depression; Early Life Trauma; Emotional and Behavioral Dysregulation.
Hello. Welcome! I am a Board Certified Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychologist with extensive experience helping toddlers, children, adolescents and their families cope with life's challenges. In my practice, Alba Psychology USA, I prioritize my clients' relational health, and value excellence in compassionate, individualized, and family-centered care.
I specialize in Autism Spectrum Evaluations, Parenting Support, and Therapy for challenges related to: Autism; Anxiety; Depression; Early Life Trauma; Emotional and Behavioral Dysregulation.
Hello. Welcome! I am a Board Certified Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychologist with extensive experience helping toddlers, children, adolescents and their families cope with life's challenges. In my practice, Alba Psychology USA, I prioritize my clients' relational health, and value excellence in compassionate, individualized, and family-centered care.
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Photo of Jessica Baker, MS, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jessica Baker
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
Hello! I specialize in psychological assessment from ages 1 - 99. I am able to assess for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, social (pragmatic) communication disorder, cognitive/intellectual impairments (including for guardianship concerns), learning disabilities, and speech and language difficulties, as well as personality assessment and bariatric surgery assessments. I also provide therapy services, especially for those with a history of chronic and/or substantial stress (PTSD/Adjustment concerns), and I specialize in CBIT/Tourette's and other tic disorders. More info here: jmkbaker0519.wixsite.com
Hello! I specialize in psychological assessment from ages 1 - 99. I am able to assess for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, social (pragmatic) communication disorder, cognitive/intellectual impairments (including for guardianship concerns), learning disabilities, and speech and language difficulties, as well as personality assessment and bariatric surgery assessments. I also provide therapy services, especially for those with a history of chronic and/or substantial stress (PTSD/Adjustment concerns), and I specialize in CBIT/Tourette's and other tic disorders. More info here: jmkbaker0519.wixsite.com
(313) 251-3474 View (313) 251-3474
Photo of Jana Penrod, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jana Penrod
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
Parenting Coach- Parenting is one of the most difficult and rewarding jobs you will ever have! But when you are trying to parent a child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder, ADHD, Autism or a child with no diagnosis that is particularly challenging it is exhausting! I know, because I raised two tough kids as a single parent and have taught hundreds of families in the past 35 years how to solve behavioral issues and teach new ways of interacting with one another. When you have tools to help you, your home becomes more peaceful and your relationship with your child improves in a very short amount of time.
Parenting Coach- Parenting is one of the most difficult and rewarding jobs you will ever have! But when you are trying to parent a child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder, ADHD, Autism or a child with no diagnosis that is particularly challenging it is exhausting! I know, because I raised two tough kids as a single parent and have taught hundreds of families in the past 35 years how to solve behavioral issues and teach new ways of interacting with one another. When you have tools to help you, your home becomes more peaceful and your relationship with your child improves in a very short amount of time.
(517) 955-2203 View (517) 955-2203
Photo of Chelsea (Derks) Knight, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea (Derks) Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
(248) 609-4698 View (248) 609-4698
Photo of Miriam Sherk - Ann Arbor Music Therapy, LLC, MMT, MT-BC, LLPC
Ann Arbor Music Therapy, LLC
MMT, MT-BC, LLPC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Ann Arbor Music Therapy assists clients of all ages and abilities, including children, adolescents and adults with mental health needs, autism, developmental disabilities and older adults with dementia in reaching their fullest potential through music. Miriam's clinical mental health counseling and music therapy tools are person centered, strength-based, and address the needs of the whole person. If you are seeking emotional or behavioral support for anyone in your family and looking for a supportive, creative, and engaging environment to meet their needs please be in touch.
Ann Arbor Music Therapy assists clients of all ages and abilities, including children, adolescents and adults with mental health needs, autism, developmental disabilities and older adults with dementia in reaching their fullest potential through music. Miriam's clinical mental health counseling and music therapy tools are person centered, strength-based, and address the needs of the whole person. If you are seeking emotional or behavioral support for anyone in your family and looking for a supportive, creative, and engaging environment to meet their needs please be in touch.
(734) 436-3623 View (734) 436-3623
Photo of Steven Gilpin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven Gilpin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I have experience and knowledge in working with individuals that are TBLGQ or live with grief, trauma, autism, PTSD, C-PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and many other mental health concerns.
I believe therapy is a space where you can unload things that you are struggling to carry alone, develop clear insight, build greater self-compassion, and address barriers that keep you from achieving your goals. The first step in doing any one of these things is building a strong relationship with your therapist. I strive to make this possible by providing an open, judgement-free, and warm space where you can share who you are and what you are struggling to manage. I regularly work with folx age 14 and up on finding ways to manage their anxious or depressive thinking, and alleviate their stress.
I have experience and knowledge in working with individuals that are TBLGQ or live with grief, trauma, autism, PTSD, C-PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and many other mental health concerns.
I believe therapy is a space where you can unload things that you are struggling to carry alone, develop clear insight, build greater self-compassion, and address barriers that keep you from achieving your goals. The first step in doing any one of these things is building a strong relationship with your therapist. I strive to make this possible by providing an open, judgement-free, and warm space where you can share who you are and what you are struggling to manage. I regularly work with folx age 14 and up on finding ways to manage their anxious or depressive thinking, and alleviate their stress.
(734) 869-8070 View (734) 869-8070
Photo of Erin Hunter - University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF), PhD
University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF)
PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Besides evidence-based individual and family-centered mental health treatment, UCCF also offers a series of specialized programs, including: Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through our University of Michigan Autism Consultation and Treatment Services (UM-ACTS), an ASD feeding program, and the Early Start Denver Model Parent Training Group.
Welcome! The Mary A. Rackham Institute's (MARI) University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF) offers compassionate, evidence-based, confidential, and culturally humble mental health treatment and testing for children, adolescents, teens, and their families. We serve U-M affiliated families and the local and broader Michigan community. UCCF has a multi-disciplinary staff of psychologists, social workers, a psychiatrist, BCBAs, a speech-language pathologist, and advanced level clinicians-in-training. We are deeply invested in the overall growth and well-being of our diverse clientele. Common presenting concerns include, but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, parenting management, relationship challenges, grief/loss, testing/evaluation, and behavioral concerns. Our facility was designed with families in mind; our waiting room includes a play room for children, diaper changing stations in all of our restrooms, and child care may be available during appointments depending on U-M student staffing availability.
Besides evidence-based individual and family-centered mental health treatment, UCCF also offers a series of specialized programs, including: Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through our University of Michigan Autism Consultation and Treatment Services (UM-ACTS), an ASD feeding program, and the Early Start Denver Model Parent Training Group.
Welcome! The Mary A. Rackham Institute's (MARI) University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF) offers compassionate, evidence-based, confidential, and culturally humble mental health treatment and testing for children, adolescents, teens, and their families. We serve U-M affiliated families and the local and broader Michigan community. UCCF has a multi-disciplinary staff of psychologists, social workers, a psychiatrist, BCBAs, a speech-language pathologist, and advanced level clinicians-in-training. We are deeply invested in the overall growth and well-being of our diverse clientele. Common presenting concerns include, but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, parenting management, relationship challenges, grief/loss, testing/evaluation, and behavioral concerns. Our facility was designed with families in mind; our waiting room includes a play room for children, diaper changing stations in all of our restrooms, and child care may be available during appointments depending on U-M student staffing availability.
(734) 259-3184 View (734) 259-3184
Photo of Lily Lange, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lily Lange
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Chelsea, MI 48118  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a variety of symptoms stemming from Autism, ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression.
Welcome! I’m Lily, a dedicated and compassionate therapist with a passion for guiding individuals towards a path of growth and self discovery. My approach blends evidence-based practices with genuine empathy to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for your journey. I specialize in adolescent youths and young adults trying to find their way whether it’s managing stress, navigating through life, or overcoming obstacles. As a neurodivergent individual myself, I can help give tools, coping skills, and validate your experiences to help relieve some stress from your diagnoses so you can live a fuller life!
I have experience working with a variety of symptoms stemming from Autism, ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression.
Welcome! I’m Lily, a dedicated and compassionate therapist with a passion for guiding individuals towards a path of growth and self discovery. My approach blends evidence-based practices with genuine empathy to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for your journey. I specialize in adolescent youths and young adults trying to find their way whether it’s managing stress, navigating through life, or overcoming obstacles. As a neurodivergent individual myself, I can help give tools, coping skills, and validate your experiences to help relieve some stress from your diagnoses so you can live a fuller life!
(517) 797-4782 View (517) 797-4782
Photo of Maureen Linnell - Root to Rise - Child, Maternal, & Family Therapy, LMSW, LCSW, IMH-E®, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Root to Rise - Child, Maternal, & Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, IMH-E®, IFS
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
A difficult diagnosis (chronic illness, Autism) can push us to our tipping point.
Overwhelmed with parenthood? Struggling to understand your child’s behavior? Dealing with postpartum depression? You probably imagined parenthood looking quite different. There is no easy fix for managing anxiety surrounding pregnancy, the postpartum period, or infant/early childhood challenges. There is no instruction manual to open when your child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, or a developmental delay. Your parental instinct is simply to help your baby get better. Whether that baby is an infant, toddler, or school-aged, your goal is to get to the root of the struggle - and ensure a successful & happy future.
A difficult diagnosis (chronic illness, Autism) can push us to our tipping point.
Overwhelmed with parenthood? Struggling to understand your child’s behavior? Dealing with postpartum depression? You probably imagined parenthood looking quite different. There is no easy fix for managing anxiety surrounding pregnancy, the postpartum period, or infant/early childhood challenges. There is no instruction manual to open when your child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, or a developmental delay. Your parental instinct is simply to help your baby get better. Whether that baby is an infant, toddler, or school-aged, your goal is to get to the root of the struggle - and ensure a successful & happy future.
(810) 627-7061 View (810) 627-7061
Photo of Sherry (Kuan-Ting) Wu, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry (Kuan-Ting) Wu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Hi! I’m Kuan-Ting, or you can also call me Sherry (either name works for me!). I have experience working with children with Autism in various settings during my undergrad and graduate studies. I have a profound passion for helping people navigate through life's challenges such as stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and various other hurdles.
Hi! I’m Kuan-Ting, or you can also call me Sherry (either name works for me!). I have experience working with children with Autism in various settings during my undergrad and graduate studies. I have a profound passion for helping people navigate through life's challenges such as stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and various other hurdles.
(734) 849-4870 View (734) 849-4870
Wendy L Thompson
Psychologist, PhD, LP, Fully, License
Verified Verified
Chelsea, MI 48118
I provide autism evaluations utilizing the ADOS and ADIR, neuropsychological, and educational evaluations.
Are you feeling sad, depressed, worried, fighting, arguing, anxious, feeling stuck, unhappy, having communication issues, inattention, concentration problems, social skills problems, low self confidence, relationship problems, or need crisis intervention? Have you experienced trauma? Do you want to enhance peek performance in sports or everyday life with the development of mental skills (concentration, imagery, self talk, etc.)? I worked with a diversity of problems including parenting skills, child behavior disorders, autism, marital discord, job finding skills, fears and nervous habits, stress, depression, assertiveness training, panic disorder, phobias, social skills deficit, emotional and behavioral problems. I specialize in cognitive behavior therapy.
I provide autism evaluations utilizing the ADOS and ADIR, neuropsychological, and educational evaluations.
Are you feeling sad, depressed, worried, fighting, arguing, anxious, feeling stuck, unhappy, having communication issues, inattention, concentration problems, social skills problems, low self confidence, relationship problems, or need crisis intervention? Have you experienced trauma? Do you want to enhance peek performance in sports or everyday life with the development of mental skills (concentration, imagery, self talk, etc.)? I worked with a diversity of problems including parenting skills, child behavior disorders, autism, marital discord, job finding skills, fears and nervous habits, stress, depression, assertiveness training, panic disorder, phobias, social skills deficit, emotional and behavioral problems. I specialize in cognitive behavior therapy.
(734) 720-8574 View (734) 720-8574
Photo of Mike Corrigan, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike Corrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamburg, MI 48139
Waitlist for new clients
I also have an additional 13 years experience working with Developmental Disabilities, Asperger's and Autism.
I work to help others reduce distress, maximize functioning and find joy and purpose in their lives. No matter what challenges we face, we can learn ways to improve our ability to meet and overcome them. I use a combination of techniques to build and enhance skills for rising to meet life's stressful moments and to understand that our "weaknesses" can be our greatest strengths.
I also have an additional 13 years experience working with Developmental Disabilities, Asperger's and Autism.
I work to help others reduce distress, maximize functioning and find joy and purpose in their lives. No matter what challenges we face, we can learn ways to improve our ability to meet and overcome them. I use a combination of techniques to build and enhance skills for rising to meet life's stressful moments and to understand that our "weaknesses" can be our greatest strengths.
(810) 360-2828 View (810) 360-2828
Autism Therapists

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?

Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?

Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.